Latest news with #VolunteeringServices
Scoop
6 days ago
- General
- Scoop
Shining Stars Of Volunteering Recognised In The Western Bay
Volunteers who go above and beyond for their communities were celebrated at the Volunteer Star Awards by Volunteering Services. The event was held during the Tauranga Big Shout Out Morning Tea at The Kollective on June 18th, as part of National Volunteer Week. The awards recognised individuals from across the Western Bay of Plenty for their exceptional commitment and generosity. As part of the opening, the attendees were welcomed by Councillor Marten Rozeboom. 'I tip my hat to anyone who's prepared to give up a portion of their life to make someone else's life better', Rozeboom shared. Spanning six diverse categories, this year's Volunteer Star Award winners reflect the depth of volunteerism in our region. From environmental action to youth support, neighbourhood care to lifetime dedication, each recipient showcases the powerful impact of giving time for the good of others. 2025 Volunteer Star Award Winners Rising Star – Youth Volunteer: Hannah Secker A talented baker and long-time supporter of Under the Stars, Hannah began helping as a child with her family and now creates weekly homemade desserts for those experiencing homelessness. Her creativity, reliability and warmth are a gift to all. New Light – Newcomer Volunteer: Emily-Kay Livick Emily recently stepped into the role of Achilles Tauranga chapter leader, advocating for disabled children and young people who often miss out on long-distance running events. Her calm leadership and fresh energy are helping create a more inclusive local running community. Local Star – Neighbourhood Champion: Fareena Ali Fareena has volunteered for over a decade with Papamoa Food Hub and its predecessor. Tireless, cheerful, and deeply committed, she supports food relief efforts and is beloved by her fellow volunteers. Green Star – Environmental Volunteer: Jacquie Ashton Jacquie leads the Pest Free Ōmokoroa group, securing funding, growing volunteer networks, and building relationships with mana whenua. Her impact is visible across the peninsula — a true conservation leader working with heart. Guiding Light – Lifetime Volunteer: Shona Graham Celebrating 30 years with Katikati Community Centre, Shona has supported events, after-school care, holiday programmes and much more. Known for her positivity and generosity, she's considered a cornerstone of her community. Shining Star – Volunteer of the Year: Jasper Osborne Through Stoney Creek's Hunt for Good, Jasper donates wild game to community groups including Kura Kai. He balances full-time work with running the not-for-profit and weekend hunts — all to provide nutritious food for local whānau. With over 60 nominations put forward, Volunteering Services Manager, Angela Wallace shares 'Our judges had their work cut out for them with an overwhelming number of nominations and such incredible mahi happening in our region'. Volunteering Services thanks all nominators and community groups who participated — and everyone who makes time to care for others. Special mention also goes to NumberWorks'nWords Tauranga, Neighbourhood Support WBOP, Envirohub BOP, FreshChoice Papamoa, Leanne Brown - Harcourts Pāpāmoa, Tauranga City Council Welcoming Communities, The Coffee Club NZ for their generosity in sponsoring this year's prizes. For more information or to connect with local volunteering opportunities, please reach out on or call (07) 987-0920.
Scoop
13-06-2025
- General
- Scoop
A Week To Celebrate Volunteers
From June 15-21, National Volunteer Week will shine a light on the millions of people across Aotearoa New Zealand who dedicate their time to support others. This year's theme Whiria te tangata – weaving the people together – captures the way volunteering strengthens the fabric of our community, weaving a stronger, more inclusive Aotearoa. Volunteering Services Manager, Angela Wallace, shares the gratitude the team has for the individuals and groups volunteering in the Bay. 'Every day, I'm inspired by the generosity, compassion, and dedication of people who give their time to help others,' Angela says. 'National Volunteer Week is our chance to say a big, heartfelt thank you. You make our community warmer, stronger, and more connected." Volunteering Services, a division of SociaLink Tūhono Pāpori, is the local volunteer centre for the Western Bay of Plenty. Whether you're an organisation seeking volunteer assistance or a volunteer looking for a new way to give back, the Volunteering Services team are here to help. With 120 member organisations and over 70 volunteer opportunities to choose from, they can connect you with a volunteer role you will love. The annual week is a time to recognise volunteer efforts and encourage more Kiwis to consider lending a hand. Volunteering New Zealand reports more than half of New Zealanders (53%) volunteer with an average of 18.1 hours over a period of four weeks. Compared to 2021 figures of 50.7% and 15.9 hours, respectively more Kiwis are increasing the rate and depth of their volunteering. This rise shows a growth in community involvement, and here in the Western Bay of Plenty, there are countless opportunities to support local initiatives. In recognition of the dedication of local volunteers, Volunteering Services will host The Big Shout Out morning tea during National Volunteer Week at The Kollective. The event will bring together for-purpose organisations and volunteers from across Tauranga Moana to thank them for their dedication and contribution to the community. Events in Te Puke, Katikati and Waihī Beach are also planned. Adding to the celebration will be the announcement of the Volunteering Services Volunteer Star Awards. 'We're so grateful to everyone who nominated,' Angela shares. 'The judges had a difficult time selecting winners from so many brilliant nominations'. For more information on volunteering opportunities in Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty, visit or call (07) 987 0920.
